When my wife expressed her desire for a stylish container to organize her growing collection of aroma oils and accessories for her newfound interest in aromatherapy, I saw it as an opportunity to showcase my woodworking prowess. Not only would it enhance the ambiance of our home with delightful scents, but it also meant I could indulge in a rewarding woodworking project that would earn me some extra brownie points.
Designing the Box:
The task was clear: create a single, spacious box to accommodate all her aroma oil bottles while incorporating a drawer pull she had handpicked. After careful consideration, the final design took shape—a sleek single-drawer carcass with a handle adorning the top.
This project presented the perfect chance to hone my dovetailing skills. The outer carcass called for a mitered dovetail, ideal for a first attempt, while the inner drawer provided the perfect canvas to refine my half-blind dovetails. Additionally, the carcass required grooves to support a back panel, while the drawer bottom needed to fit snugly into a rebate.
Choosing the Lumber:
Securing black walnut in Japan was no easy feat, but a stroke of luck led me to acquire some imported from the United States. This rare find would add a touch of elegance to the project. I also opted for Japanese ash slabs to contrast with the dark tones of the walnut, ensuring a visually striking finish while offering practical benefits during assembly.
Mastering the Mitered Dovetail:
Approaching the bench to tackle the mitered dovetail might seem daunting at first, but with a solid foundation in standard through dovetailing, the process becomes manageable. With meticulous planning and precise layout, finesse is all it takes to tackle the challenge.
To mark out the joint, precision is key. Utilizing a marking gauge set to the material’s thickness, establish the baseline on the tail board, marking both faces. Repeat the process on the pin board, ensuring uniform thickness to avoid misalignment. Carefully calculate the mitered portion’s width, marking it with precision to achieve seamless integration.
Executing the miter requires attention to detail. With the aid of a 45° chisel guide block, ensure accurate cuts to achieve a perfect fit. Take precautionary measures to prevent saw plunge during cutting, securing a scrap piece to guide the saw along the mitered edge.
Finalizing the miter calls for finesse and patience. Utilizing a 45° block for paring, carefully refine the joint to achieve a flawless finish. Exercise caution around the delicate mitered edge to prevent bruising or chipping.
Crafting the Drawer:
With the outer carcass complete, attention turns to crafting the drawer. Opting for black walnut for the drawer front, I chose to showcase its natural beauty with half-blind dovetails. The addition of a bark inclusion added a touch of character to the piece.
For the drawer bottom, a simple rebate provided a secure housing, ensuring structural integrity without compromising aesthetics. Precision and foresight in layout ensured a seamless fit, culminating in a snugly fitting drawer that slid effortlessly into place.
Adding the Final Touches:
Responding to my wife’s request for a handle, I meticulously fashioned one from a spare piece of black walnut, incorporating a 1:8 ratio dovetail design to complement the box’s aesthetic. With careful shaping and sanding, I created a handle that not only offered practicality but also enhanced the box’s visual appeal.
For the finishing touch, I opted for a simple boiled linseed oil, allowing the natural beauty of the wood to shine through while providing protection. The application process was methodical, with multiple coats applied over several days to achieve a smooth, lustrous finish that delighted the senses.
In crafting this mitered dovetail box, I not only fulfilled a practical need but also embarked on a journey of skill development and creative expression. With each meticulous cut and careful finish, I found joy in the artistry of woodworking, creating a timeless piece that would be cherished for years to come.
